Players cop monster bans over brawl in Latrobe Valley cricket match

Cricket Latrobe Valley has hit two players with long suspensions after an investigation and tribunal hearing over a brawl that broke out in an A-grade match at Traralgon on Saturday. SEE THE VIDEO INSIDE.

Two cricketers have been hit with long suspensions over the brawl that broke out during an A-grade game in Gippsland last Saturday.

The incident — which was captured on a livestream — occurred during the Cricket Latrobe Valley match between Rovers and Gormandale at Duncan Cameron Memorial Park in Traralgon.

Footage showed a Gormandale bowler and a Rovers batsman coming together in the 43rd over of the second day of the game.

After an exchange of words at the nonstriker’s end, the bowler appeared to headbutt his opponent, setting off scenes that the association was quick to condemn.

Other players became involved and the batsman was put in a headlock and fell to the ground.

A wild brawl erupted during a club cricket match in Latrobe Valley on Saturday.

The game continued after the players were separated, with Rovers going on to 8-143 in reply to 79.

Last night two Gormandale players appeared before the tribunal, with the bowler receiving a 10-year ban and a fieldsman suspended for four years.

New Cricket Latrobe Valley president Wayne Mills has been contacted for comment.

Outgoing president Brad Howlett said last Sunday morning: “We are aware of the incident that took place yesterday between Rovers Cricket Club and Gormandale Cricket Club.

“Our league is built on principles of respect and fair play and sportsmanship and we don’t condone any behaviour that goes against these values.

“There was a match official in place. He’s done his report and we will review the report and follow further steps past that.’’

Somehow, the match continued after the fight.

Gormandale Cricket Club said in a statement: “As a club we want to emphasise that there is no place for such incidents in cricket. Our sport has always been — and should always be — a safe and inclusive environment for everyone who participates in the game.

“We acknowledge that this is a sensitive issue for many involved, and out of respect for those affected we will not be making any further comments at this time. We kindly remind the community that there are real people involved who are still processing what occurred. We ask for kindness as our volunteers work diligently to support everyone affected.

“The Gormandale Cricket Club firmly believes in the spirit of cricket. When this spirit is compromised, it is our responsibility to do everything we can to restore it.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to those in the community who have reached out in support during this time.’’

In a statement today, Rovers confirmed that none of their players or the club were sanctioned at the tribunal hearing.

“Once again, the Traralgon Rovers Cricket Club does not condone violence in any form in our sport,’’ it said.

“We ask that you respect the privacy of all the individuals involved in this matter, as this has been a trying time for all concerned.’’

Gormandale president Brendan Peavey said this morning that he was mindful that young men were involved and the club had a duty of care to them, “regardless of (tribunal) determinations’’.

He referred comment to CLV secretary Linda Spiteri.

Originally published as Players cop monster bans over brawl in Latrobe Valley cricket match